11 Day Beautiful Bordeaux

Scenic River Cruise starting in Bordeaux and finishing in Bordeaux

Read 2 reviews and enjoy exclusive savings on Scenic's 11 Day Beautiful Bordeaux. This 10 night river cruise uncovers the gems of the Bordeaux region including Cadillac, Saint-Emilion, Cognac and Arcachon, on board a Scenic 'Space-Ship'.

11 Day Beautiful Bordeaux

Scenic River Cruise starting in Bordeaux and finishing in Bordeaux

Read 2 reviews and enjoy exclusive savings on Scenic's 11 Day Beautiful Bordeaux. This 10 night river cruise uncovers the gems of the Bordeaux region including Cadillac, Saint-Emilion, Cognac and Arcachon, on board a Scenic 'Space-Ship'.

Enjoy a relaxing morning on board as you cruise in style into the beautiful 13th century port of Libourne. Whilst cruising, perhaps drop into Scenic Culinaire for a French cooking class. You'll spend the afternoon in the nearby town of Saint-Émilion, an absolute visual feast and the jewel of this ancient wine growing region. You'll also get to explore the underground catacombs of the Monolithic Church – a true trip highlight. Sundowners: Celebrate the two thousand-year history of wine by enjoying a glass at the exclusive estate of Château Siaurac. The vines glow red and gold at sunset, and with a glass of the estate's vintage in hand whilst a local guitarist provides an acoustic soundtrack, it really is hard to imagine a more elegant way to enjoy this beautiful region.

3

Libourne - Pauillac

Awake in charming Libourne. Freechoice: Enjoy a guided tour of Libourne and view its quaint 16th century town-house and Gothic church. Alternatively, explore the exclusive estate of Château Franc Mayne and taste its Grand Cru Class wine, or view the eclectic city of Bergerac and enjoy foie gras tasting at a charming local farm. After your afternoon at leisure, opt to enhance your culinary prowess in Scenic Culinaire or simply soak in the riverside panoramas while cruising to Pauillac. Enjoy an evening of fabulous local entertainment on board tonight.

4

Médoc

Travel the scenic Médoc wine route today and discover why this region is viewed as the world's leading red wine producer. Afterwards, sample the region's finest at the Château Gruaud-Larose estate, or cycle to Château Lagrange, featured on Napoleon III's 1855 Classification, for a wine tasting. Enrich: The spectacular Médoc countryside boasts many fine aristocratic châteaux but none more opulent than Château Giscours. You'll be escorted to the charming 18th century Farm Suzanne on the Giscours estate to enjoy unforgettable four-course dining with Grand Cru Class wines and live musicians performing classical masterpieces for your enjoyment. A truly wondrous evening.

5

Pauillac - Cadillac

Soak in the Garonne River vistas as you spend a luxurious full day aboard the Scenic Diamond. Cruising the picturesque landscapes of the Garonne River into Cadillac provides some of the most beautiful scenic cruising in all of the Bordeaux region. Whilst cruising you may choose to implement your cooking skills with a lesson in Scenic Culinaire. This remarkable space comes to life when fabulous local entertainers perform live in the Panorama Lounge for your exclusive enjoyment this evening.

6

Cadillac

Venture into the Sauternes region for a tasting of the prestigious Château Guiraud dessert wines. Alternatively, cycle through the rolling vineyards of Sauternes to the Grand Cru Class estate of Château Myrat for a tasting. Freechoice: Remain on board and join a master class in French cuisine in Scenic Culinaire. Or visit Roquetaillade Castle, founded by Charlemagne it's one of the region's most impressive historic sites and you'll tour it with the family that now lives within its walls. Alternatively, discover the medieval village of Saint Macaire, or perhaps enjoy a 12 kilometre roundtrip hike from Cadillac to the neighbouring village of Loupiac.

7

Bordeaux

Freechoice: Shop with a Chef at a local food market and cook up a storm in Scenic Culinaire afterwards. Or enjoy a guided tour of Bordeaux and her many attractions. For the more energetic, cycle the historic regions of Bordeaux. Cross beautiful bridges to witness sites such as the Royal Gate and the Palais Rohan, before cycling through public gardens back to the luxury of your floating hotel. A city that exudes atmospheric charm, you'll enjoy a full afternoon at leisure to immerse yourself in the culture of the Bordelais. Enjoy a special dinner on board showcasing regional delicacies before an illuminations cruise on the Garonne River. A fabulous local soloist will perform live in the Panorama Lounge tonight. What a magical evening.

8

Arcachon - Bourg

Situated on the northern tip of Europe's longest coastal beach, Arcachon is the jewel of France's western coastline. Freechoice: For those fancying something sweet, why not stay on board and enjoy a fabulous Mademoiselle de Margaux chocolate and wine pairing event in Scenic Culinaire. Alternatively, explore Le Teich Bird Reserve, home to over 250 bird species. Or climb Europe's largest sand dune and drink in the expansive panoramas. You may choose instead to join a walking tour of Arcachon including the local Baltard market. In the afternoon, cruise leisurely into Bourg and, in the evening, enjoy a lively jazz performance on board.

9

Cognac

Today explore the unique northern shores of the Gironde Estuary. Freechoice: Discover the Carriages Museum in the enchanting Bourg Castle including a visit to the 16th century passageway to the guards rooms and immense WWII oil tanks. Alternatively, spend a full day exploring the fortified town of Cognac, renowned for its production of fine brandy. Afterwards, enjoy a tasting at the acclaimed property of Rémy Martin. This afternoon, unwind on the Sun Deck cruising on the Gironde River into the historic port of Blaye.

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Blaye - Bordeaux

Discover the remarkable Blaye region, established to protect the Bordeaux region from invasion. Freechoice: Stroll through the charming Citadel of Blaye, or join a 30 kilometre roundtrip cycle along the Captain's Road which is so named in honour of the WWI Captain's who chose to purchase their homes along this beautiful stretch of waterway in the early 20th century. You'll have the opportunity to enjoy an exclusive cooking class in Scenic Culinaire or simply relax on board as we cruise past beautiful uninhabited islands bound for Bordeaux. Dine in style at the Captain's farewell dinner on board this evening.

11

Bordeaux

Disembark after breakfast, with memories of a truly unforgettable journey. Then transfer to Bordeaux Airport or Bordeaux Train Station.

1

Bordeaux

Welcome to Bordeaux. Your friendly crew will welcome you on board the luxurious Scenic Diamond for your cruise through France’s southwestern pocket. (D)

2

Bordeaux - Saint-Émilion

Enjoy a relaxing morning on board as you cruise into the beautiful 13th century port of Libourne. While cruising, perhaps drop into Scenic Culinaire for a French cooking class. Spend the afternoon in the nearby town of Saint-Émilion, a visual feast and the jewel of this ancient wine growing region. You’ll also get to explore the underground catacombs of the Monolithic Church – a true trip highlight. Sundowners: Celebrate the 2,000-year history of wine by enjoying a glass at the estate of Château de la Rivière. Surrounded by the vines, mingle with newfound friends, explore the spectacular property, or discover the artistic heritage of this region and admire a local artist painting the stunning landscape using paint made from the wine grown on the estate. (B/L/D)

3

Libourne - Pauillac

Freechoice: Enjoy a guided tour of Libourne and view its quaint 16th century town-houses and Gothic church. Alternatively, explore the exclusive estate of Château Franc Mayne and taste its Grand Cru Class wine, or view the eclectic city of Bergerac and enjoy a foie gras tasting at a charming local farm. During your afternoon at leisure, opt to enhance your culinary prowess in Scenic Culinaire or simply take in the riverside panoramas while cruising to Pauillac. (B/L/D)

4

Médoc

Freechoice: Travel the scenic Médoc wine route and discover why this region is viewed as the world’s leading red wine producer. Afterwards, sample the region’s finest at the Château Gruaud-Larose estate. Alternatively, cycle through the region to a local château and sample delicious wine produced on the estate. Enrich: Set in spectacular surrounds in the Médoc countryside, Château Agassac is truly enchanting. Dating back to the 13th century, the Château is one of the oldest winemaking establishments in the region and is the venue for your unforgettable evening concert. Soak in the ambience of this magnificent property as live musicians perform classical masterpieces for your exclusive enjoyment. (B/L/D)

5

Pauillac - Cadillac

Soak in the vistas as you cruise on board the luxurious Scenic Diamond past the picturesque landscapes of the Garonne River into Cadillac, some of the most beautiful scenic cruising in the Bordeaux region. While on board, you may choose to further develop your cooking skills with a lesson in Scenic Culinaire. Tonight, this remarkable space comes to life when fabulous local entertainers perform live in the Panorama Lounge for your exclusive enjoyment. (B/L/D)

6

Cadillac

Freechoice: This morning, venture into the Sauternes region for a tasting of the prestigious Château Guiraud dessert wines. Alternatively, cycle through the rolling vineyards of Sauternes to the Grand Cru Class estate of Château Myrat for a tasting. Freechoice: This afternoon visit Roquetaillade Castle; founded by Charlemagne, it’s one of the region’s most impressive historic sites, and you’ll tour it with the family that now lives within its walls. Alternatively, visit a truffle farm and sample the delicious regional delicacy, or perhaps enjoy a 12 kilometre roundtrip hike from Cadillac to the village of Loupiac. (B/L/D)

7

Bordeaux

Freechoice: Shop with a Chef at a local food market and cook up a storm in Scenic Culinaire afterwards. Or, enjoy a guided tour of Bordeaux and her many attractions. For the more energetic, cycle the historic regions of Bordeaux. Cross beautiful bridges to witness sites such as the Royal Gate and the Palais Rohan, before cycling through public gardens back to the luxury of your floating hotel. Spend the afternoon at leisure to immerse yourself in the culture of the Bordelais. Enjoy a special dinner on board showcasing regional delicacies before an illuminations cruise on the Garonne River. A fabulous local soloist will perform live in the Panorama Lounge to round off a magical evening. (B/L/D)

8

Arcachon - Bourg:

Situated on the northern tip of Europe’s longest coastal beach, Arcachon is the jewel of France’s western coastline. Freechoice: Journey to Arcachon and join a walking tour including a visit to the local Baltard market. Or climb Europe’s largest sand dune and take in the expansive panoramas. Alternatively, stay in Bordeaux and take a local tram to the Cité du Vin museum and enjoy an interactive journey of wine discovery. This afternoon, if you fancy something sweet, stay on board and enjoy a fabulous Mademoiselle de Margaux chocolate and wine-pairing event. Later, take a leisurely cruise into Bourg, perhaps join a masterclass in French cooking in Scenic Culinaire. Tonight enjoy a lively jazz performance on board. (B/L/D)

9

Cognac

Today explore the unique northern shores of the Gironde Estuary. Freechoice: Discover the Carriages Museum in the enchanting Bourg Castle including a visit to the 16th century passageway to the guards rooms and immense WWII oil tanks. Alternatively, spend a full day exploring the fortified town of Cognac, renowned for its production of fine brandy. Afterwards, enjoy a tasting at the acclaimed property of Rémy Martin. This afternoon, unwind on the Sun Deck cruising on the Gironde River into the historic port of Blaye. (B/L/D)

10

Blaye - Bordeaux

Discover the remarkable Blaye region, established to protect the Bordeaux region from invasion. Freechoice: Stroll through the charming Citadel of Blaye, or take a more active walk throughout the town. Alternatively, join a 30 kilometre roundtrip cycle along the Captain’s Road which is named in honour of the WWI Captains who chose to purchase their homes along this beautiful stretch of waterway in the early 20th century. Enjoy a cooking class in Scenic Culinaire or simply relax on board as we cruise past beautiful uninhabited islands, bound for Bordeaux. Dine at the Captain’s farewell dinner on board this evening. (B/L/D)

11

Bordeaux

Disembark after breakfast and transfer to Bordeaux Airport or Bordeaux Train Station. (B)

Seize the opportunity to take easy paced bicycle rides at your leisure through spectacular scenery and villages

Visit the architectural jewel that is Roquetaillade Castle, and learn the history surrounding this magnificent Castle

Spend an afternoon in the town of Saint-Émilion and visit the underground catacombs of its Monolithic Church

Travel through the Médoc wine region of France and enjoy a tasting of the region's famous drops

Delight in the gastronomic specialties of the Bordeaux region on board your Scenic Space-Ship

All tipping and gratuities

Scenic Freechoice

Whether you want a relaxed pace or you want to fit in as much as possible, 'Freechoice' offers a diverse range of sightseeing, activities and dining for you to choose from. And of course, they're all included.

All Scenic guests are unique so we appreciate that different people may want different levels of pace during your trip. Perhaps plan to follow a busy day with one at a more relaxed tempo or know you can truly unwind throughout.

Scenic Enrich

All-inclusive, exclusive, unique. Scenic's 'Enrich' encounters take you behind the scenes to enjoy moments inaccessible to the ordinary traveller. Enrich experiences will take you to the cultural heart of life that has been established over centuries around the waterways of Europe.

Scenic's Journey Designers have handpicked and created a range of diverse and thrilling moments that will become highlights of your cruise. From great seats of learning to traditional country ways of life, step into a truly memorable experience.

Wellness and fitness area featuring an innovative Salt Therapy Lounge*

The freedom of our e-bikes – electronically assisted bicycles*

Cruise Directors to guide and assist, plus expert local guides

Butler & Laundry service for all guests

Authentic local entertainment

Complimentary Wi-Fi

Return airport transfers, at your convenience

Scenic Freechoice

You can choose between a vast range of activities and sightseeing experiences, ensuring you only see what you want to see and do what you want to do, at a tempo that suits you.

With additional options available, there is a wealth of choice in all locations, whichever cruise or tour you decide on. From history to culture, food to nature, there's something for everyone.

Scenic Enrich

All-inclusive, exclusive, unique. Scenic's 'Enrich' encounters take you behind the scenes to enjoy moments inaccessible to the ordinary traveller. Enrich experiences will take you to the cultural heart of life that has been established over centuries around the waterways of Europe.

Scenic's Journey Designers have handpicked and created a range of diverse and thrilling moments that will become highlights of your trip. From private concerts in opulent castles to dinner in beautiful palaces, our Scenic Enrich experiences are one-of-a-kind and only for Scenic guests.

Enrich encounters will be indicated in the itinerary.

Trip Notes

*Not available on all ships.

Itinerary and inclusions subject to change.

Price is for land, cruise and specified internal flights. International flights not included.

Gallery

Reviews (2)

Trip reviews from past clients of Global Journeys who have travelled on Beautiful Bordeaux with Scenic.

Our Cruise was the first of the season on a ship which had just come out of a major upgrade and had a new crew. It was clear that things were not quite 100% with plywood where there should have been glass on stairs and some of the evening meals were very slow and a bit chaotic. We did however enjoy the cruise and these minor issues were easily overlooked. The crew did try very hard to satisfy everybody and the tour director was excellent. I'm sure that when the ship is completed and the crew are more experienced in operating together that this cruise would be very good.

Have you booked a trip with Global Journeys previously? Thanks! Save an additional $50 per person (up to $100 per booking) off the trip of your choice (over 6 days in length). This saving is open for a period of 4 years from the date of last booking you made with Global Journeys.

Tour Notes
Trip prices are per person, and reflect applicable discounts. Discounts are subject to availability, exclusive to Global Journeys and may be withdrawn at any time without notice. Trip prices are correct at the time of the products going live, however are subject to confirmation at the time of booking. All trip information is correct at time of trips going live, however are subject to change by Scenic. Full terms & conditions are available here.